212 Life of Count Rumford. 



and has assisted in her education ; and your daughter has im- 

 proved greatly on the opportunities she has had. She possesses 

 a noble mind, and wants nothing but the aid of her father to 



make her accomplished I am sure you will not hesitate at 



bestowing upon her every blessing a parent can impart. Your 

 daughter will be the bearer of this, and will sail to-morrow 

 (weather permitting). The season is advanced, but the weather 

 easy and fine. I shall feel anxious until I hear of her arrival. 

 Pray, write me by the very first opportunity. 



" In answer to your inquiry, I can say that it is my opinion 

 that you can freely return to America, either with or without 

 official leave from the State, as you may choose ; and that you 

 would realize a hearty welcome from all your old friends and 

 citizens in general. I can say for one, that there is not a per- 

 son on earth that I should rejoice so much to see Sally 



will be able to inform you particularly what your mother's situa- 

 tion is, and that of many other of your friends ; but I trust you 

 will yet return. Pray, come and see your kind mother. Make 

 us a visit, if you do no more. 



u I am, dear Sir Benjamin, with much respect and esteem, 

 " Your most obedient servant, 



"LOAMMI BALDWIN. 



"Sia BENJAMIN THOMPSON, KNT." 



The Count returned the following in reply : 



"LONDON, 26th March, 1796. 



" MY DEAR SIR, I return you many thanks for your 

 friendly letters which I received by my Daughter, and I beg 

 you would accept my warmest acknowledgments for all the 

 kindness you have shown to my Daughter for the many years 

 she has been known to you. 



44 Her gratitude to you is without bounds, and she says noth- 

 ing on earth will ever make her forget your goodness to her. I 

 do not despair of being able, at some future period, to express to 

 you in person, by word of mouth, the sense I entertain of your 

 kindness to my dear Child. You will not expect that I should 

 attempt to describe the pleasure I felt at seeing my dear Girl, 



